Tamariki Ōpāwaho at Beststart Ferry Road enjoyed learning about Kōanga - Spring to celebrate Te Wiki o Te Reo Māori - Māori language week
Kaiako introduced tamariki to the exciting sensorial world of awakening mana whenua-land with provocations that invited both wonder and awe
There were stories and songs shared at mat-times where we korero about Papatūānuku-earth mother and how she adorns herself with the blossoming putiputi-flowers, busy pī-bees and chirping manu-brids.
The learning about spring was extended alongside tactile, manipulative play which afforded tamariki with opportunities to experiment texture, colours and shapes. Through out the week, tamariki explored painting with spring colours where they experimented with mixing colours. They were invited to waiata and kanikani- music and movement where they danced their hearts out.
Water play during warmer days was always a treat where tamariki learned to relax and unwind in their mana atua-welbeing. Tamariki at BestStart Ferry road are afforded their agency with a variety of play experiences to choose from that flow across indoor and outdoor learning environments, thus their spontaneous play is recognised as valued learning.
We at BestStart Ferry road celebrate Ako-teaching and learning where tamariki and kaiako learn from and teach each other. Creative blend of open-ended resources and intentional teaching strategies at BestStart Ferry road support children's independent learning as much as guided teaching.